Next Photo Tour of Thailand dates: November 15 – 27th, 2019
Age old temples, golden Buddhas, and sacred rituals. Join us in Thailand, a cultural melting pot, where the unique blend of religion and spirituality is as old as the country itself. Vibrant cities, remote countryside, and wild jungles. This is the real Thailand.
You think you know Thailand? Think again. Far away from the glistening resorts of the south, you will find remote hill tribes and rice paddies, ancient Buddhist temples and sacred rituals – this is Thailand as you have never seen it before.
On this photo tour of Thailand, our journey begins in the vibrant city of Chiang Mai before journeying deep into the northern jungles of the Mae Hong Son region. Pausing in the laid-back town of Pai, and the charming city of Chiang Rai, before looping back to Chiang Mai.
Along the way we will be stopping at many of Thailand's vibrant markets and UNESCO world heritage sights, to explore the rich history dating back to 1238, when Thailand was the Kingdom of Siam.
Thailand Photo Tour – 13 Days
- Where: Thailand
- When: November 15 – 27th, 2019
- Length: 13 Days (12 nights)
- Who: You and 11 other photography enthusiasts.
- What: A 13-day photo tour of Thailand, catering to photographing in the best locations at the best time of day for light. You will travel and learn in an informal small group setting, with a flexible schedule (including free time to explore) and customized photography tips and tutoring in the field to match the group members. This tour is also perfect to bring non-photographers along as well. Although it is customized for photographers there is still a lot to be enjoyed, even without a camera in hand.
- Why: Total photography immersion, in a safe and relaxed environment, with experienced professional photographers, and expert local guides (where applicable) providing lots of hands-on help.
Join us for a 13-day photography tour of Thailand: the world’s most popular tourist destination. From the peaceful panoramic views high in the mountains to the chaos of the inner city markets, Thailand is a country like no other.
Over the 13 days, we will take you on a loop of Northern Thailand to explore some of the most historic and culturally rich sites in the world.
A truly memorable trip
Thank you for a truly memorable trip. It had been my dream to visit Morocco for such a long time and being one of my 60th Birthday experiences I shall treasure it all.
How much is this photo tour of Thailand?
This tour is designed to offer you both adventure and comfort.
We stay in comfortable and clean rooms in properties with local character and style when possible.
All in-country transportation and meals are included. We also take care of little incidentals like water daily, entrance fees for all attractions, and snacks on the transport for a smooth easy experience.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 10 – 12 People Nice group size with a maximum of 12 people |
$5395 USD |
| Small Group Supplement With less than 10 people (8 – 9), a small group fee will apply |
+$500 USD |
Maximum group size: 12
Remaining Spots: 8
This is less than many other Thailand photo tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours!
NOTE: We have lowered the maximum number of participants on this tour to 12. This is less than many other photography tours which include 15-20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours. Keeping the group sizes small allows for a smaller, more intimate group in order to give you the best experience.
This means you will have more time with the tour leaders (there are two on this tour), and a really nice group size.
Single Supplement Price:
- Prices quoted are for double occupancy. NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
- Price for single room is an additional $695 USD
Do you love to travel? Are you are as obsessed with travel and photography as we are?
Then you need to join us in Thailand for a magical adventure you will not want to miss. Not only will you learn how to take better photographs, through the support of our expert teachers, but you can rest assured you will travel to some of the best locations Thailand has to offer photographers.
Beyond pleased with the trip!
Every day was a pleasant surprise and I really didn't want to know the agenda! We explored places that I would never have found on my own.
I have met some absolute wonderful photography friends and I would like to have another gathering of our group!
The Best Light
This photography tour to Thailand has been put together by our expert team of tour leaders and local guides to ensure each day we are always photographing in the best light possible.
Over the 13 days, you will learn all about lighting, and how to overcome any challenging lighting situations you may face.
Expect ancient temples at sunrise, monks at sunset, and everything in between.
The Best Locations
These are not your normal tourist destination, and this is not your average tour.
Although we will be taking you to some sights you will read about in your guidebook, on this photo tour expect the unexpected. Where others might go in, we go around. We take you beyond the tourist trail to find the real Thailand.
This is a custom designed travel tour, by a photographer, for photography enthusiasts.
Less Rushed
Hate feeling rushed in big group tours? Us too. That’s why we always keep our group sizes small, so you will never feel rushed.
We make sure you have all the time you need to get the best photographs possible. This also means that anytime you feel like taking a break or skipping a location, fine with us.
We are here to support your photographic passion, and if that means taking a break, you got it!
Buddhas and Temples
Thailand is home to more than 40,000 Buddhist temples, with over 300 in Chiang Mai alone! We have picked out the best of the best for you to photograph during your time with us in Northern Thailand.
Love Buddhas? Gold, stone, tall, short, reclining, seated – in Thailand, there are Buddhas everywhere, to meet every taste.
Part of Thailand's uniqueness is its ability to blend religion and spirituality seamlessly into everyday life. This way of living with spirituality playing a leading role in daily life is as old as the country itself and something you will bear witness to on this tour.
One-on-One Access to Tour Leaders
Come along and join us on a journey through one of the safest and most awe-inspiring destinations in this part of the world.
Your tour leaders are sure to work in some special surprises. Want to try light painting or brush up your food photography? We’ll add in fun, offbeat photo outings to play with specific skills and photo tricks.
We specially-design our tour as a small group experience. You’ll have plenty of room to find just the right light and with a 6:1 ratio of guests to photo leaders, you have easy one-on-one access to your experienced tour leaders.
Photography Immersion
If you like photo vacations with an emphasis on improving your camera skills at the same time, a smaller group presents a greater chance you’ll learn what you came to – and then some!
Over the course of the tour, you will get help in areas you may be struggling with, in a small group setting, out in the field.
This will help maximize your learning opportunities and give you time to get individual help, ask questions, have your images reviewed (time and schedule permitting) and allow us to customize the tour dynamically based on each guest's needs and skill level.
Fall in Love with Thailand
With a popular phrase that translates as “don’t worry” (mai pen rai), it is no wonder that Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
From the picture-perfect beaches of the southern islands to the lush greenery of the jungle and mountains of the north, Thailand is as diverse as it is magical.
On this photo tour, we will be exploring the north of the country looping from Chiang Mai through Pai to the Mae Hong Son area and Chiang Rai before returning to Chiang Mai. We will journey through tribal villages high in the mountains, rice paddies, and Buddhist temples.
We will be stopping at markets and UNESCO world heritage sights to explore the rich history dating back to 1238 when Thailand was the Kingdom of Siam.
Temples and Rituals
Each temple we have chosen to shoot reflects a different time period and architectural style. From the 15th century masterpiece that is Wat Chedi Luang to the unmistakable murals of the 14th Century Wat Phra Singh. Some of the temples we will be taking you to include:
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Wat Phra Singh
- Wat Doi Kongmu temple
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple
- Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple)
- Blue Temple
For each temple visit, we have carefully selected the best time of day to photograph. We have arranged to go at sunrise and sunset as well as blue hour and golden hour shoots. In addition, we have arranged for you to witness a sacred ritual performed by novice Buddhist Monks.
Afternoon Tea
Chinese tea in the highlands of Thailand?
That's right, we are going to take you high up into the mountains of Thailand to spend the afternoon learning all about tea in a remote plantation. This will be a unique opportunity to capture a side of Thailand not often seen by tourists.
Mekong River
The Mekong River is Asia’s seventh longest river running from Tibet through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It is located in the Golden Triangle where Thailand borders Myanmar and Laos. Here you will get to experience the unique culture of this area influenced by its neighbors Myanmar and Laos.
Mountains and Waterfalls
When many people think of Thailand they think of secluded beaches and a turquoise sea. But did you know that Thailand boasts some of the most vibrant green landscapes?
With miles upon miles of dense jungle, concealing hidden waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
No to mention the rice paddies, orchid farms, and rugged mountains – Thailand is diverse.
There will be plenty of opportunity on this tour for chasing waterfalls and capturing the rich landscape of Northern Thailand.
Thai Food and Markets
We can’t talk about Thailand without talking about the incredible flavors, freshness, and variety of Thai food. Thailand boasts some of the most delicious and diverse food in the world.
During your time with us on this tour you will experience every kind of Thai dining there is, from the delicious street food of the Thai markets to home-cooked Thai meals. You will even get to try your hand at Thai cooking.
Thailand’s market culture helps with the freshness of its food, something you will get to experience when you visit the many different markets on this tour. From the fruit markets to the night bazaars and walking markets – there is so much to see and smell.
Darlene is an excellent tour leader.
The tour guide that we had was also excellent.
The tour visited interesting places and was well paced. The numerous social occasions to eat together and enjoy the local culture was an excellent way for group members to bond and to also appreciate the Cuban people.
Darlene is an excellent photo instructor who is very knowledgeable and has a talent for helping students at all levels to learn.
This is a tentative schedule, may not be exactly as shown here:
- Day 1 – Chiang Mai (D)
- Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, you will be met at the airport, where you will be transferred to the hotel. Once checked-in there will be time for you to relax before meeting the rest of the group at the welcome meeting and orientation. In the evening, we will enjoy our first meal together.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort Hotel
- Day 2 – Chiang Mai (B, L, D)
- Our day will begin with a visit to Kanta Elephant Sanctuary for a special experience. You will get to feed the elephants, walk and play with them, and possibly even bathe an elephant. Afterward, we will head to Warorot Market for lunch and some market photography. We will then take an easy walk to Wat Chedi Luang for a Sunset photo shoot. Along the way, we will be passing by one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai, Wat Phan Tao, and the iconic Tha Pae Gate.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort Hotel
- Day 3 – Chiang Mai (B, L, D)
- We begin the day early, with a visit to Wat Phra Singh, for a Blue Hour and sunrise shoot before heading back to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, it is time to put your culinary skills to the test with a Thai Cooking Class.
Drive to the south of the city to visit Wat Ton Kwen or Wat Inthrawat, one of the finest examples of classic Lanna architecture in Northern Thailand. Proceed to hang Dong for an incredible gastronomic experience with the local Ruankaew-Yanon family. You will be welcomed into their home to experience a typical day in the life of a Thai person, in a real Thai neighborhood. You will learn to cook traditional home cooked recipes with authentic Northern Thai flavors that are different from standard dishes offered in commercial cooking classes. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal which helped create with the whole family. It goes without saying that for lunch today you will be eating all of the delicious food you have spent the morning preparing.
Then it’s all about the markets! We’ll take a Songthaew (red truck taxi) to Muang Mai fruit market where we will do some more market photography before continuing onto the Sunday evening walking market.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort Hotel
- Day 4 – Pai (B, L, D)
- We begin our fourth day together with an early breakfast before traveling by minibus to Pai. After lunch at the hotel, we will be joined by our local guide who will be accompanying us as we explore the countryside surrounding Pai.
Keep your camera at the ready as there is potential for photographing elephants, water buffaloes, and of course local people.
Pai Belle Villa Resort
- Day 5 – Soppong (B, L, D)
- Today we will be taking a day trip to nearby Soppong.
Driving high up into the mountains to photograph the beautiful views of the Thai countryside, before continuing onto Tham Iod Cave.
Later in the afternoon, we will be shifting focus from nature to people and portraits. Traveling to the rice fields to first photograph monks, before paying a visit to one of the hill tribe villages to photograph local people.
Pai Belle Villa Resort
- Day 6 – Mae Hong Son province (B, L, D)
- After breakfast, we will be continuing on the hills of the Mae Hong Son region where our first stop will be photographing a local Lahu tribe.
Continuing our journey we will pass through villages and the beautiful Thai countryside (pausing for photographs of course) before stopping for lunch and fresh coffee at a scenic viewpoint.
After lunch, time permitting, there might be a visit to a village on the Thai-Myanmar border or a Chinese village in the highlands that produce tea.
Our day will end at the stunning Su Tong Pae Bridge. Spanning several rice paddies, we’ll spend the afternoon photographing Buddhist Monks on the bridge and in the local temple.
Fern Resort Hotel
- Day 7 – Mae Hong Son province (B, L, D)
- Today we make an early morning visit to Wat Doi Kongmu temple on the hill to photograph the sunrise.
After breakfast, we will be traveling south toward Khun Yuam district. Here we will visit the Nam Tok waterfall within the Mae Suring National Park, a Karen tribe village, rice farms, and Bua Tong Sunflower hill before settling down to capture the panoramic mountain view at sunset.
Fern Resort Hotel
- Day 8 – Chiang Mai (B, L, D)
- On day 8 we will pay a visit to Khun Yuam market where we will have breakfast.
After breakfast, we will drive to Chiang Mai.
You will have some free time after checking into our hotel, or an optional short walk to the night bazaar for dinner.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort Hotel
- Day 9 – Chiang Rai (B, L, D)
- Today we have an early morning start to see the Morning Alms Giving. This is where novice monks walk down from the temple to collect alms.
This is a sacred ritual and guests will also have an opportunity to give alms, and be blessed by the monks.
After, we will drive up to Wat Phra That Doi Sutep temple (the main sight in Chiang Mai) to beat the crowds.
We will then collect our belongings from the hotel before making the journey up to Chiang Rai.
Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, we will head straight to Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple), followed by an early dinner at a local restaurant, and then back to the temple for sunset.
The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa
- Day 10 – Chiang Rai (B, L, D)
- We have a full day today visiting the Golden Triangle, where three countries (Thailand, Myanmar & Laos) meet.
We will first visit a Karen Long neck village before continuing on to Mae Sai, a Thai/Myanmar border town, before returning to our hotel in Chiang Rai.
The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa
- Day 11 – Chiang Rai (B, L, D)
- Day eleven is all about temples and tea!
After breakfast, we drive to Baan Dum (The Black House). Then, drive to Doi Maesalong, famous for its tea plantation. Mae Salong is 1,800 meters above the sea level and has Chinese temples, open-air bazaars, and shops that offer Chinese specialties such as tea and locally grown preserved fruits. Continue to Mae Chan for visit to Yao and Akha hill tribe villages.
You may have some free time to visit the clock tower and night bazaar, time permitting.
The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa
- Day 12 – Chiang Mai (B, L, D)
- After breakfast we will drive back to Chiang Mai where you will have the afternoon free to explore Chiang Mai at your own leisure, we highly recommend treating yourself to a Thai Massage!
In the evening we will reconvene to photograph Muay Thai Boxers training at their gym before enjoying a farewell dinner together at Riverside Restaurant.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort Hotel
- Day 13 – Leave for home (B)
- After we share our final breakfast at the hotel your journey home begins. Alternatively, you can choose to extend your trip, at your own expense, and stay on a few more days in Chiang Mai
Make Time for Thailand
Thailand is well-known for being welcoming to foreign visitors. Its people are always extremely polite, happy and of course, smiling.
This laid-back destination is waiting for you.
We may have a packed schedule, but as with all of our photo tours, we always make time for you to explore on your own. So never fear there will be time for shopping, exploring alone and a Thai massage (or five).
Darlene is an excellent tour leader.
The tour guide that we had was also excellent.
The tour visited interesting places and was well paced. The numerous social occasions to eat together and enjoy the local culture was an excellent way for group members to bond and to also appreciate the Cuban people.
Darlene is an excellent photo instructor who is very knowledgeable and has a talent for helping students at all levels to learn.
Your Photo Tour Leaders:
Kav Dadfar
One of your tour leaders for the Thailand photo tour is Kav Dadfar, a full-time photographer and writer based on the outskirts of London. Kav first visited Thailand 12 years, ago spending a month backpacking from north to south. He loved it so much that he has been back 8 times since then, visiting just about every region of this amazing country.
From hiking and sleeping in the remote tribal villages of the north to exploring the paradise islands of the Andaman sea. From walking along the infamous death railway to sipping a cocktail in one of Bangkok's many sky bars, there is a reason that he keeps returning to the land of a “thousand smiles”.
Kav has a wealth of experience in photographing high-end stock shots as well as shooting assignments and commercial work for various clients over the years.
His images have been used by the likes of Condé Nast, National Geographic, Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, American Express, multiple National newspapers and many more. As a regular writer for various photography websites, Kav has written over 150 articles on photography.
Darlene Hildebrandt
Your second tour leader for this photo tour of Thailand is Darlene. Darlene is the creator of Digital Photo Mentor, a photography teacher, tour leader, traveler, and a cat owner.
She has over 30 years of experience as a professional photographer, has been teaching since 2011 and has led over 8 photo tours and 20 photography workshops.
Darlene is a Fuji user but speaks almost all other photography languages. Whatever your skill level and experience, she can help you unlock the next level and take better photos.
Cost of Photo Tour of Thailand
We have lowered the maximum number of participants on this tour to 12. This is less than many other Thailand tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours. Keeping the group sizes small allows for a smaller, more intimate group in order to give you the best experience.
This means you will have more time with the tour leader(s), and a really nice group size.
***The minimum number of people required to run the tour is eight.***
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 10 – 12 People Nice group size with a maximum of 12 people |
$5395 USD |
| Small Group Supplement With less than 10 people (8 – 9), a small group fee will apply |
+$500 USD |
Maximum group size: 12
Remaining Spots: 8
This is less than many other photo tours of Thailand, and we've decided to keep the group smaller for a more personalized experience.
Single Supplement Price:
- Prices quoted are for double occupancy. NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
- Price for a single room is an additional $695 USD.
The price of the tour includes:
- 13 nights hotel accommodations.
- Meals – 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 12 dinners (includes non-alcoholic beverages and tips).
- Air-conditioned transportation – included driver, fuel, and insurance.
- Excursions.
- Entrance fees for any attractions the group goes to.
- Organized photo shoots.
- Photography lessons in the field and image reviews one-on-one (as time permits).
- Photography tutoring and help as needed, you just have to ask.
- Portage tips for bags.
The price DOES NOT include:
- Your flight or other travel to Thailand.
- Tips for your guide, driver, and tour leaders.
- Travel medical insurance (this is mandatory to participate in DPM tours).
- Lunches on your free days.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Personal spending.
- Optional activities like Spa treatments and Thai Massages or training to be a Muay Thai champion boxer etc.
Flights to Thailand: We travel to Thailand through Chiang Mai International Airport. Transportation will be provided to meet you and take you to your hotel.
Note: We actually recommend arriving a day or two early in order to get acclimatized to the time zone.
Flights home from Thailand: The tour ends and you depart from Chiang Mai International Airport so make your travel arrangements accordingly. The last day of the tour is November 27th, 2019.
Traveling with Darlene and DPM Tours is a series of unexpected, unusual and unique experiences to be savoured and enjoyed.
Easy way to open ones eyes and heart to different worlds and cultures.
Cuba is a perfect place to experience this with its warm and welcoming people, music and history.
FAQs
What is the physical fitness level needed for this tour?
Although for most locations there will be some walking involved, these will be short and easy even when we are in the remote regions. So if you are in good health and fitness level, you will be fine. But this tour is NOT recommended for people with mobility issues.
What skill level do I have to be in photography?
We encourage all skill levels to join us on this tour. It is not about what you know it's about doing photography together, enjoying the adventure, and learning a few things along the way. Whatever your level you can get some tips from the tour leader. We do however recommend you have a basic level of knowledge and experience using your camera. You don't even have to be a photographer, but can come along and appreciate the relaxed pace of this tour.
Where does the tour start and how can I get there?
The tour starts in the northern city of Chiang Mai which is well connected to the rest of South East Asia with numerous flights. You can either fly directly to Chiang Mai airport connecting at places such as Guangzhou or even Taiwan. Or most people find it easier to fly to Bangkok and catch an internal flight to Chiang Mai (around 1 hour 15 mins).
What sort food should I expect to eat?
Thailand is a true food lovers paradise and nowhere more so than northern Thailand. On all of our tours we try to incorporate places to eat that make delicious local cuisine rather than big chain restaurants as this is part of the whole travel experience. Whilst most Thai dishes will be on the spicier side, you can request this to be dialed down when ordering. There will also options which won't be spicy at all.
I don't like spicy or Thai food, will there be other options?
In the big cities such as Chiang Mai and Bangkok, there will be western chain restaurants such as McDonalds and KFC. There will also be restaurants that serve burgers, pizzas and other western food. But please note that these are not part of the tour.
In the more remote areas, there WILL NOT be other options for food. So we would suggest informing us well in advance of the trip so that we can try to make alternative arrangements for you. We also HIGHLY recommend planning ahead and bringing along some nutritional bars or protein powder type meal replacements if you have issues with spicy food. We may not always be able to provide you with many options and the variety of any western or more plain food will be very limited and repetitive (think of it as going to a sushi restaurant and asking for a burger or pizza, they aren't trained or equipped to make such food).
Is Thailand safe?
Thailand is an incredibly safe country where the people are warm and friendly. As long as you use the same level of caution and common sense as you would do in your own country you shouldn't have any problems.
What if I don't have a roommate but don't want to pay the extra for a single?
If you request to share a room and we cannot match you with a roommate you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. We do our best to pair everyone up but due to gender mismatches, we may not always have equal numbers of males or females. You can certainly bring a friend along to share.
Your photo tour of Morocco fulfilled my dream.
You all had planned out where we would get the most bang for our buck! I believed I told you that Morocco was number 1 on my list to visit and this certainly fulfilled my dream! You were awesome! I really loved the way that you got yourself involved and showed us all how to have fun.
Experience what Cuba is really like
If you want a photo excursion that offers you a chance to experience what Cuba is really like on a realistic local level the Digital Photo Mentor tour to Cuba is for you. When I was on the tour I sometimes wished for a fancy hotel but when I did a tour and stayed in a fancy hotel I realized I was missing what Cuba was really like.
I did two different trips of Cuba.
While they were both good, if I had only taken the second trip and not the DPM one, I would not have had any idea of what life in Cuba is really like.
The trip I took with Darlene and the group was one of the highlights of anything I had ever done.
I have been on four of Darlene's photography tours
I have been on four of Darlene's photography tours and all of them are full of adventure, learning opportunities, and fun!
Darlene creates situations that allow you to be creative with your photography and gives you advice on trying new techniques, all in beautiful settings.
Our Photo Tours & Workshops
Click here for our complete list of photo tours of South America, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, and if you'd like more hands-on, photography education, you'll love one of our workshops, held in Western Canada (new locations like Scotland, Mexico and Italy coming soon).